A-198 Acute Effects of a Single Moderate-intensity Exercise on Omega-3 and Omega-6 Metabolic Pathway Using Whole Blood Lipidomics

Abstract Background Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation can reduce muscle soreness and maintain muscle function following eccentric exercise-induced muscle damage. However, the relationship between the dietary and biological status of omega-3 fatty acids in rugby players is unknown. This study aimed to examine the relationship between the dietary and biological status of omega-3 fatty acids in university rugby players. We investigated acute effects of a single moderate-intensity exercise on omega-3 and omega-6 metabolic pathway using whole blood lipidomics. Methods A cross-sectional study of university rugby players and age-matched sedentary controls was conducted. Diets including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids were assessed using a validated brief-type self-administered diet history questionnaire. Whole blood lipidomics analysis was performed using the dried blood spot technique before and after a single training session, namely a 2-h shuttle run, and the omega-3 index (EPA + DHA) was calculated. We categorized rugby players based on the proposed omega-3 index risk zones for cardiovascular disease as follows: high risk, <4%; intermediate risk, 4%–8%; low risk, >8%. Results The rugby group (n = 29) had a significantly higher intake of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids than the control group (n = 31). The blood omega-6 relative concentration did not differ between the groups; however, the rugby group had lower omega-3 fatty acid levels than the control group (4.4 ± 1.1 vs 6.2 ± 1.8%). Approximately 48% of rugby players had an omega-3 index that was considered high risk, and 52% had that considered intermediate risk. None of the patients had a low-risk omega-3 index. A single training session affected the omega-3 and omega-6 metabolic pathways. Conclusion Rugby football players may be deficient in omega-3 fatty acids, despite having a higher omega-3 fatty acid intake than controls. The omega-3 index and lipidomics can be used to profile and monitor rugby players. Further nutritional interventions are required to confirm these issues.